Pakistan’s Women’s World Cup campaign was dealt another heavy blow on Saturday as persistent rain in Colombo forced their second washout in four days, leaving their hopes of progressing to the semi-finals hanging by a thread, ESPNcricinfo reported.
Pakistan were 92 for 5 in 25 overs against New Zealand when heavy showers returned to end play, forcing both sides to share points.
The result confirmed South Africa’s qualification to the semi-finals, joining Australia, as even a finish on eight points will now take them through based on the number of wins.
If two or more teams end with equal points, the team with more victories advances — and with four wins from five matches, South Africa are assured of a semifinal berth.
For Pakistan, the outcome continued a disappointing run as they remain winless in the tournament.
New Zealand, meanwhile, stayed fifth on the points table, keeping their faint hopes alive with one win and two abandoned matches so far. Their next two fixtures, against India and England, will now determine their fate.
Earlier, New Zealand made the most of overcast conditions after winning the toss.
Veteran pacer Lea Tahuhu marked her return to the XI with two early wickets, while Eden Carson and the Kerr sisters chipped in to leave Pakistan struggling at 92 for 5 before the final rain break.
Tahuhu struck in her opening over, trapping Omaima Sohail lbw for 3, before sharp catches from Suzie Bates and Carson dented Pakistan further. Muneeba Ali (22) and Sidra Amin (13) offered brief resistance, but Pakistan’s innings never settled as the drizzle intensified.
After a 95-minute delay, play resumed in a reduced 46-over contest, with Aliya Riaz (28 not out) showing some fight alongside Natalia Pervaiz.
However, Pervaiz’s luck ran out on 14 when she holed out to Sophie Devine off Carson. Soon after, skipper Fatima Sana was bowled by Melie Kerr’s wrong’un as Pakistan slumped to 80 for 5.
Rain returned after five more overs, halting play at 92 for 5.
Despite brief hopes of a restart — with the match further shortened to 36 overs per side — heavy showers eventually forced the officials to call off the game.
It was the second abandoned fixture for Pakistan in four days, leaving their campaign precariously poised ahead of their final group matches.
